Dembele is ready for Chelsea

With Andres Iniesta among the injured, and Paulinho below the level that he showed in the first third of the season, the gap to sneak Ousmane Dembele into Ernesto Valverde's starting XI for the Chelsea game is bigger than ever.

The Frenchman played his best game as a Barcelona player against Malaga, and he seems fully recovered - psychically and mentally - from the injuries that he suffered.

"Dembele had more success against Malaga than other times this season, it's one more step for him," Valverde said after the game.

Pending Iniesta, it's necessary to know what the coach's approach will be.

If he opts for a more conservative plan, Paulinho and Andre Gomes, because of their size and defensive contribution, are presented as the most appropriate choices.

If, on the other hand, Valverde decides on a more daring approach, then Dembele seems to be one of the most logical options.

Against Malaga, the Frenchman played 85 minutes and showed the sparkle that was expected when he arrived in Barcelona last summer.

He gelled well with Sergi Roberto, found Luis Suarez on several occasions, and assisted Philippe Coutinho for the second goal of the game.

It was, without doubt, his most complete performance.

Valverde knows he can already count on Dembele for the decisive phase of the season, and now his tactical approach is the only thing separating the young Frenchman from a starting spot for Wednesday's clash.